Diabetes Research

Diabetes is a disease characterized by a high level of sugar, or glucose, in the blood. Insulin is a hormone that helps your cells get energy from glucose.

High glucose is the result of an insulin deficit. If your pancreas does not produce enough insulin on its own, or if your body doesn't use insulin efficiently, excess glucose remains in your blood.

Diabetes can damage your:

• Nerves
• Eyes
• Kidneys
• Heart
• Brain

UPMC Department of Pathology diabetes researchers study how:

• The immune system works against the body to cause diabetes
• Diabetes leads to organ damage and other complications on its own

Our Experts in Diabetes Research

• Youhua Liu, PhD: Dr. Liu's laboratory studies the molecular mechanisms of kidney fibrosis that can lead to renal failure and the need for dialysis or kidney transplantation. Learn more about Dr. Liu's research and publications.
• Reza Zarnegar, PhD: Dr. Zarnegar's laboratory is involved in determining the mechanisms of diabetes-induced liver disease. Learn more about Dr. Zarnegar’s research and publications.

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